Giant Haystacks

The behemoth that was Giant Haystacks stalked the squared circle, his massive frame a harbinger of destruction for all who dared step into the ring with him. Born Martin Ruane in 1946, this Londoner would grow to become one of the most feared and revered wrestlers of his generation.

Haystacks' towering presence, measuring in at 6 feet 11 inches and tipping the scales at a staggering 685 pounds, was only surpassed by his unyielding brawling style. A force to be reckoned with in any promotion he set foot in – World Championship Wrestling, All Japan Pro Wrestling, National Wrestling Alliance, Catch Wrestling Association, and All Star Wrestling among them – Haystacks left a trail of vanquished foes in his wake.

His arsenal was simple yet devastatingly effective: the Super Splash, a thunderous finishing move that sent opponents crashing to the mat. Few could withstand the full fury of Haystacks' attacks, and even fewer emerged victorious from their encounters with the giant.

Haystacks' résumé read like a laundry list of championships won: the Stampede International Tag Team Championship, the ASW British Heavyweight Championship – twice, no less. His legend grew with each passing year, as did his imposing physique. By the late 1980s and early '90s, Haystacks was an elder statesman of the sport, a respected veteran who still packed a punch despite his advanced years.

Tragedy would strike on November 29, 1998, when Haystacks succumbed to the ravages of Krabbe's disease. His final match took place three years prior, in March 1996 – a testament to the indomitable spirit that had driven him throughout his long and storied career.

Today, Giant Haystacks' towering legacy endures, a reminder of the power, passion, and sheer physicality that once defined the world of professional wrestling. His name remains synonymous with greatness, a byword for the unstoppable force that was Martin Ruane, aka Giant Haystacks.